ZipRecruiter

Log In

1

Freelance Linux Kernel Development Jobs in Wallingford, PA

Ghost Robotics

Linux Systems Engineer

Philadelphia, PA · On-site

The ideal candidate will possess deep expertise in Linux kernel development, embedded systems, system diagnostics, and infrastructure automation. You will collaborate closely with hardware, software ...

Cornelis Networks

Principal Network Architect

Wayne, PA · On-site

Experience with Linux kernel technologies, device drivers, kernel-bypass networking, or low-latency networking frameworks. * Strong C/C++ development experience supporting high-performance networking ...

Cornelis Networks

Principal Network Architect

Wayne, PA · On-site +1

Experience with Linux kernel technologies, device drivers, kernel-bypass networking, or low-latency networking frameworks. * Strong C/C++ development experience supporting high-performance networking ...

FreedomPay

Sr. Systems Engineer

Philadelphia, PA · Hybrid

$105K - $144K/yr

... kernel, device, and operating system metrics and an ability to make informed decisions based on key ... Experience with containerization and Linux operating systems a plus * Ability to work independently ...

FreedomPay

Sr. Systems Engineer

Philadelphia, PA · On-site

$105K - $144K/yr

... kernel, device, and operating system metrics and an ability to make informed decisions based on key ... Experience with containerization and Linux operating systems a plus * Ability to work independently ...

FreedomPay

Sr. Systems Engineer

Philadelphia, PA · Hybrid

$105K - $144K/yr

... kernel, device, and operating system metrics and an ability to make informed decisions based on key ... Experience with containerization and Linux operating systems a plus * Ability to work independently ...

All JobsLinux Kernel Development JobsFreelance Linux Kernel Development JobsFreelance Linux Kernel Development Jobs in Wallingford, PA

Freelance Linux Kernel Development information

See Wallingford, PA salary details

$99.6K

$147K

$173.6K

How much do freelance linux kernel development jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 1, 2026, the average yearly pay for freelance linux kernel development in Wallingford, PA is $146,989.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $134,600.00 and $162,700.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are some common challenges faced by freelance Linux Kernel developers when working with clients remotely?

Freelance Linux Kernel developers often encounter challenges such as navigating complex codebases without in-house support, aligning with clients’ specific kernel customization requirements, and ensuring thorough testing across diverse hardware environments. Effective communication is essential, as misunderstandings about project scope or technical specifications can arise without face-to-face interactions. Building strong documentation habits and using collaborative tools can help streamline workflows and maintain clarity throughout the development process.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Freelance Linux Kernel Developer, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Freelance Linux Kernel Developer, you need in-depth knowledge of C programming, operating system concepts, and Linux kernel architecture, often demonstrated by a degree in computer science or equivalent experience. Familiarity with version control systems like Git, debugging tools such as GDB, and open-source collaboration platforms is typically necessary. Strong problem-solving skills, self-motivation, and effective communication are crucial for managing independent projects and collaborating with distributed teams. These skills ensure you can deliver robust kernel code, troubleshoot complex issues, and contribute meaningfully to open-source projects or client requirements.

What is freelance Linux kernel development?

Freelance Linux kernel development involves independently working on the Linux operating system's core, either by contributing to the mainline kernel, developing custom modules, or supporting companies with kernel-level issues. Freelancers in this field often tackle tasks such as writing device drivers, optimizing system performance, or integrating hardware with Linux. The work requires deep expertise in C programming and an understanding of operating system concepts. Freelancers may collaborate with open-source communities or work directly with clients needing specialized Linux solutions.
Freelance Linux Kernel Development jobs near you

Linux Systems Engineer

Ghost Robotics

Philadelphia, PA • On-site

Full-time

Re-posted 22 days ago

Job description

We are seeking an experienced Linux Systems Engineer to join our engineering department. In this role, you will be responsible for the architecture, development, optimization, and maintenance of Linux environments that power our hardware infrastructure. The ideal candidate will possess deep expertise in Linux kernel development, embedded systems, system diagnostics, and infrastructure automation.
You will collaborate closely with hardware, software, and QA teams to ensure seamless integration between applications and underlying operating system platforms, particularly within embedded Linux environments.
Key Responsibilities
Linux Kernel & Operating System Administration
  • Perform custom Linux kernel patching, configuration, compilation, and lifecycle maintenance across multiple hardware platforms.
  • Configure and maintain Linux operating systems for stability, performance, and scalability.
Embedded Systems Integration
  • Deploy, manage, and optimize Linux distributions for embedded hardware architectures.
  • Support and maintain NVIDIA Jetson modules and associated embedded platforms.
Build System Architecture
  • Develop and maintain sophisticated Linux build environments.
  • Manage software dependencies, cross-compilation toolchains, and package management systems.
Network Engineering
  • Design, configure, and troubleshoot complex Linux networking environments.
  • Manage routing protocols, firewalls (iptables, nftables), custom network bridges, and network interfaces.
System Diagnostics & Troubleshooting
  • Perform advanced debugging and root-cause analysis of Linux system issues.
  • Diagnose kernel panics, configuration inconsistencies, and performance bottlenecks.
Infrastructure Automation
  • Design and implement automation scripts for:
    • Software deployment
    • System validation testing
    • Operational maintenance tasks
Cross-Functional Collaboration
  • Work closely with hardware engineering, software development, and QA teams.
  • Ensure successful integration of software applications with embedded Linux operating systems.

Requirements
Technical Skills
  • Strong programming experience in:
    • C++
    • Python
    • Advanced Bash scripting
  • Extensive experience administering and troubleshooting headless Linux systems through the command-line interface.
  • Deep familiarity with a variety of Linux distributions, including:
    • Custom/source-based distributions (Yocto Project, Gentoo, Arch Linux)
    • Enterprise distributions (Ubuntu, Debian)
System Diagnostics & Development Tools
  • Proficiency with Linux debugging and diagnostic utilities, including:
    • gdb
    • strace
    • dmesg
    • journalctl
    • perf
    • Valgrind
  • Advanced experience using version control systems such as Git.
  • Familiarity with industry-standard development tools and editors, including:
    • VS Code
    • Vim
    • nano
Professional Competencies
  • Strong analytical and problem-solving abilities.
  • Excellent written and verbal communication skills.
  • Ability to create clear and detailed technical documentation for complex system architectures.

Preferred Qualifications
  • Hands-on experience with:
    • NVIDIA Jetson architectures
    • JetPack SDKs
    • Board Support Packages (BSPs)
  • Experience with build systems and utilities such as:
    • CMake
    • Make
    • Ninja
  • Experience integrating embedded Linux systems into CI/CD pipelines using:
    • GitLab CI
    • GitHub Actions
    • Jenkins
  • Familiarity with containerization technologies for embedded environments, including:
    • Docker
    • systemd-nspawn
  • Knowledge of hardware communication interfaces and low-level system integration:
    • I2C
    • SPI
    • UART
    • GPIO
    • Device Tree Source (DTS) modification

Location
Philadelphia, PA. This is a full-time, on-site role. No remote candidates will be considered at this time.
Travel
None required, though domestic and international opportunities exist for engineers who want field exposure.
Compensation
Competitive base salary, full benefits, and a highly motivating equity incentive package. Flexible time off policy. We focus on output, impact, and the ability to work alongside a stellar interdisciplinary team.
Additional Information
Clear standard background checks are required pre-hire, post-hire, and at any time during employment. Permanent U.S. residency is required.

Apply